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What Happens to DNA in Low pH?

Published in DNA Stability 1 min read

In low pH conditions (pH 5 or lower), DNA is prone to depurination, which is the loss of purine bases (adenine and guanine) from the DNA molecule. According to available research, DNA molecules are generally stable within a neutral pH range of 5 to 9. However, when the pH becomes too acidic, the stability of DNA is compromised.

Here's a breakdown of what happens:

  • Depurination: This is the primary effect of low pH on DNA. The acidic environment causes the bond between the purine base and the deoxyribose sugar to break, resulting in the loss of the purine base.
  • Destabilization: Overall, low pH destabilizes the DNA molecule.
pH Level DNA Stability Effect
5-9 Stable No significant change
Below 5 Unstable Depurination (loss of purine bases)